Precision Machinist Review

After putting on the correct PPE, we enter the workshop and check the emergency stops. We are then left to work on the job that we had started on the previous days or start a new job. Then we are left to work and if we need help, we find an instructor and they help.

I came to the company with no experience with machines, therefore I have learnt so much in the last 7 months. I have learnt how to use the lathes and milling machines and then how to effectively use hand tools (eg filling and scraping). I have also learnt a lot at college including higher level maths and CAD.

Like everything, there are bad days, but overall I have no complaints when working at the company. I really enjoy working with my colleagues and the instructors are always really helpful and supportive. I was worried when joining that my extreme lack of knowledge with machining would put me in a bad light but everyone has been so accepting and made me feel so comfortable. This has allowed me to learn a lot and make expected progress.

Every 15 weeks we are inducted in a new machine and this is really well organised and all of the instructors carry out the inductions in a very effective way. The way the different apprentices are managed by different instructors is very well structured as it spreads the workload to all of the instructors and ensures that as an apprentice, you get help quickly.

We get a lot of help from all the instructors and they are always very helpful. My manager is very approachable and helpful, although is very busy which isn't his fault but means that assistance can take a bit longer. Support is also very easily obtained online and by colleagues.

Support is easily available at any point. There are books available to assist with the college work or any of the instructors can help. Also there is an online resource, LJ create which gives information on the theory side of the college work. When it comes to the NVQ, the instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful if needed.

The theory that we learn is extremely helpful for our day-to-day activities as it allows us to understand the machines and how they work and all of their different capabilities. This allows me to be more effective when working and get more done. Also the in depth knowledge allows me to be safer.

The AAA's arrange extra-curricular activities for the apprentices. This is available for all apprentices. There was also an the opportunity to go to the mach conference and despite it being rearranged due to covid-19, the opportunity was still there. There is also the Rec soc which provides extra curricular activities such as a gym and other sporting events.

Yes

My experience at AWE has been enjoyable and provides great opportunities for the future. The facilities and equipment are all impressive and the instructors are really kind and helpful. The atmosphere in the workshop is always very positive which makes waking up in the morning very easy. Being paid is also nice.

My advice would be to not panic if things go wrong. On my interview day, there were a few bumps in the road but I feel it was my resilience that made me stand out over the other people. Everyone that I have spoke to have been so nice and supportive so you should have no worries.